Tide of Tenderness (OBX)

Chapter 6

The days following Topper's unexpected visit were filled with a renewed sense of purpose for John B and Sarah. The encounter had stirred up emotions they hadn't anticipated, but it also solidified their commitment to each other and their little family.

John B continued working at the marina, quickly gaining a reputation for his hard work and reliability. He enjoyed the physical labor, the saltwater air, and the camaraderie of his coworkers. It was a far cry from the perilous adventures of treasure hunting, but it was steady, honest work, and he took pride in it.

Sarah's photography was gaining traction as well. The local gallery owner had followed through on her promise, and Sarah was deep into preparations for her solo exhibition. Her days were filled with photo shoots, editing sessions, and meetings with art curators. Despite the whirlwind of activity, she always made time for Madi and John B, finding balance in the chaos.

One evening, after a particularly long day at the marina, John B returned home to find Sarah and Madi in the backyard. Madi was toddling around, giggling as she chased bubbles Sarah blew from a small wand.

"Hey, my girls," John B called out, dropping his bag and walking over to them. Madi squealed in delight, running into his arms.

"Dada!" she exclaimed, wrapping her tiny arms around his neck.

"How was your day?" Sarah asked, her eyes sparkling with happiness at the sight of John B and Madi together.

"Good, but long," John B replied, kissing Madi's cheek. "How about you two?"

"Busy," Sarah said, blowing another stream of bubbles. "But we managed. We missed you, though."

"I missed you guys too," John B said, his heart swelling with love.

They spent the evening in the backyard, enjoying the simple pleasures of family life. As the sun set, casting a warm glow over the Chateau, they settled into a comfortable routine. Dinner was a casual affair, with Madi insisting on feeding herself, much to John B and Sarah's amusement.

After dinner, they bathed Madi, her laughter echoing through the house as she splashed in the tub. Once she was clean and dressed in her favorite pajamas, they tucked her into bed, her eyes drooping with sleep.

"Goodnight, sweet girl," Sarah whispered, kissing Madi's forehead.

"Night, night, Madi," John B added, gently smoothing her hair.

They watched her for a moment, her soft breathing a soothing reminder of the peace they had found in their new life. With Madi asleep, John B and Sarah retreated to the porch, the night air cool and refreshing.

John B wrapped an arm around Sarah's shoulders, pulling her close. "We've come a long way, haven't we?"

Sarah nodded, resting her head on his chest. "We have. And I wouldn't change a thing."

They sat in companionable silence, the sounds of the night enveloping them. It was a far cry from the danger and excitement of their past adventures, but it was exactly what they needed.

The next day, the Pogues gathered at the Chateau for one of their regular meetings. Pope had exciting news about his history archive project. "We're getting some serious interest from publishers," he announced, his eyes shining with excitement. "They think our story could make a great book."

"That's amazing, Pope!" Kiara exclaimed, hugging him.

"Yeah, man. That's huge," JJ added, clapping him on the back.

Cleo nodded in agreement, her smile genuine. "You've worked so hard on this, Pope. You deserve it."

Pope grinned, his face glowing with pride. "Thanks, guys. I couldn't have done it without all of you."